Pupils are Helping Grow Fruit and Vegetables at School

Grapes and tangerines are among healthy foods being grown in the grounds of an Irvine primary school.

Children and staff at Elderbank Primary have teamed up with parent Yousif Al Ahmed to create a garden inside a polytunnel. The growing area was created a few years ago through the Pupil Equity Fund and it has gone from strength to strength.

Headteacher Jacqueline Robertson is delighted with the project’s progress, saying:

“Yousif developed the polytunnel with the children, and they have been growing produce and then using it within the school to cook.

“It has been great for the children to grow their own produce, and for them to see the whole process – from seed to plate.”

Four of Yousif’s five children have been, or currently are, pupils at the school and he got involved in the growing project last year.

He has grown - among other things - chillies, tangerines, white grapes, broccoli, tomatoes, onions, garlic, parsley, spinach and cucumbers.

Talented gardener Yousif, from Syria, said:

“It is good for all of the children to learn about how fruit and vegetables are grown, and is especially good for children with sensory needs – like my own son, who has autism and is an Elderbank pupil.”

Earlier this year, Yousif picked up a The Ayrshire Community Trust (TACT) Adult Volunteer Recognition Award for Outstanding Contribution thanks to the work he has put in at the polytunnel.

Councillor Shaun Macaulay, Cabinet Member for Education and Young People, said members of the New Scots community working in partnership with the council in such a positive way is inspiring.

Yousif was nominated, along with other New Scots, for a TACT award by the council’s ESOL and New Scots team.

Community Development (ESOL) Worker Calum Paul added:

“It is fantastic to see that New Scots are getting to share their experiences and showcase the skills and knowledge they have.”

Pupils Cody Lee (10) and Charlie (11) are among children who enjoy rolling their sleeves up, getting their hands dirty and growing produce in the polytunnel.

Cody Lee said “We love growing pumpkins, apples and oranges in the garden” while Charlie said his nan’s love of gardening inspired him to get involved.